"Southern Belle" in London

This past semester I had the wonderful opportunity of studying in London with the Hansard Scholars Program. I took classes at The London School of Economics (LSE) and had the privilege of being an intern in Parliament. As a Political Science major, I chose this program because I wanted to learn about the United Kingdom 's Parliamentary system of government which has had a great influence on our own government and the world.

I moved to London with a minimal understanding of the policies and procedures of the British government. During my first class at LSE, the professor asked each of us to estimate, on a scale from one to ten, how much we knew about British politics. I wrote down a 2. The teacher asked the same question on the last day of class, and I was proud to put an 8.5. I approached the experience with an open mind and was willing to dive head-first into learning as much as I could in the short time I was given.

My program included 30 students, about half undergrad and half graduate students. As I was the only Southerner, my fellow students proudly labeled me the "Southern Belle." The Hansard Scholars were from all over the world including Australia , New Zealand , Zimbabwe , Chili, and the Czech Republic which was an "interesting" and culturally enriching experience in itself.

Regarding my internship, I was blessed to work for a Member of Parliament (MP), Philip Davies, who was focused on making sure I had every opportunity to have the best experience and learn the most that I could. I observed my MP in interviews, attended a session of Questions for the Prime Minister, and sat in on committee meetings. I also was able to visit with Mr. Davies and his family in his hometown of Shipley so I could see his interaction with his constituency. I truly believe that I was blessed with the best internship in the program.

During the program, I was able to do some traveling as well. The Hansard Program took us to Oxford University and Edinburgh , Scotland , where we visited the Scottish Parliament. I also traveled to Amsterdam and Italy , as well as Monaco and the French Riviera.

My study abroad experience was truly culturally enriching and I would encourage anyone to study abroad. I not only gained new life-long friends but also an experience that I will cherish for the rest of my life.

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